Warrnambool Sergeant Danny Wright said police understand a fire at a Whitehead Court residence started after a row between two women.

"Two girls we believe were known to each other had a dispute, and shortly after a fire started in the front room here," he said.

"We're appealing for witnesses who may have seen or heard anything in the Whitehead Court area around 2pm on Sunday to contact police.

"We believe this was deliberately lit and not an accident. The front room is completely destroyed and there was smoke damage to just about the whole house."

Anyone with information is urged to contact Senior Constable Wayne Ryan at Warrnambool Criminal Investigation Unit on 5560 1150 or Crime Stoppers on 18000 333 000.

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